Austin, Texas, is known for its rich culture, live music, and dynamic food scene. During the holiday season, the city becomes even more magical, offering an array of events and activities that capture the spirit of the season. Whether you’re a long-time resident or considering moving to Austin, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the holidays.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do around Austin this holiday season.
Marvel at the Trail of Lights
The Austin Trail of Lights is one of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions. Held annually in Zilker Park, this dazzling display features millions of twinkling lights, larger-than-life holiday installations, and themed tunnels. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, and even a visit with Santa Claus.
This event offers both drive-thru and walk-thru experiences, making it accessible for families, couples, and individuals alike. Tickets often sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.
The Trail of Lights is a must-see attraction that perfectly captures the magic of the season.
This event offers both drive-thru and walk-thru experiences, making it accessible for families, couples, and individuals alike. Tickets often sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.
The Trail of Lights is a must-see attraction that perfectly captures the magic of the season.
Explore the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar is a holiday shopping event that combines live music, local art, and handcrafted gifts. Held at the Palmer Events Center, this market is a treasure trove of unique items, from jewelry and ceramics to paintings and textiles.
Live performances by local musicians add to the festive atmosphere, creating a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for gifts or just browsing, the bazaar is a wonderful way to support local artists and makers.
Many of the artists are available to chat about their work, giving you a personal connection to the items you purchase.
Live performances by local musicians add to the festive atmosphere, creating a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for gifts or just browsing, the bazaar is a wonderful way to support local artists and makers.
Many of the artists are available to chat about their work, giving you a personal connection to the items you purchase.
Visit the Mozart’s Light Show
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters on Lake Austin Boulevard transforms into a holiday wonderland each year with its famous light show. This free event features a synchronized light display set to festive music, creating an enchanting experience for all ages.
Visitors can enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, and pastries while watching the show from the deck or the covered seating area. Reservations are recommended for guaranteed seating, especially during peak times.
Visitors can enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, and pastries while watching the show from the deck or the covered seating area. Reservations are recommended for guaranteed seating, especially during peak times.
Take a Holiday Cruise on Lady Bird Lake
For a unique holiday adventure, consider a holiday cruise on Lady Bird Lake. Several companies offer themed boat tours that showcase Austin’s skyline and waterfront decorated for the season.
These cruises often include festive music, hot drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a busy day of holiday activities. Private charters are also available for those looking to host a special gathering on the water.
These cruises often include festive music, hot drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a busy day of holiday activities. Private charters are also available for those looking to host a special gathering on the water.
Catch a Holiday Performance
Austin’s arts scene shines during the holiday season with a variety of performances that cater to all tastes.
- Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker: This iconic ballet brings the story of Clara and her magical journey to life with stunning choreography and a live orchestra.
- Austin Symphony Orchestra’s Christmas Concert: Enjoy classic holiday tunes performed by one of the city’s most celebrated ensembles.
- ZACH Theatre’s Holiday Shows: From musicals to comedies, ZACH Theatre offers festive productions that are sure to entertain.
Stroll Through Holiday Light Displays
Austin and its surrounding areas are home to numerous holiday light displays that delight visitors of all ages.
- Georgetown’s Lighting of the Square: Just a short drive from Austin, this historic square is transformed with thousands of lights, creating a picture-perfect holiday scene.
- Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of the Americas: Drive through a dazzling display of lights and interactive installations, complete with festive music and holiday characters.
- Marble Falls Walkway of Lights: Located about an hour from Austin, this riverside display features over two million lights, offering a magical experience for the whole family.
Shop and Sip at Holiday Markets
Holiday markets are a great way to find unique gifts while enjoying seasonal treats and drinks.
- Blue Genie Art Bazaar: This juried art show features handmade goods from over 200 local and regional artists.
- Mueller Holiday Market: Located at the Mueller Farmers Market, this seasonal event offers artisan products, fresh produce, and holiday-themed items.
- South Congress Holiday Stroll: Explore the iconic South Congress Avenue while browsing boutiques and enjoying live music.
Experience Seasonal Dining
Austin’s culinary scene embraces the holidays with special menus, pop-up bars, and festive events.
- Miracle on 5th Street: This holiday-themed pop-up bar offers seasonal cocktails in a cozy, decked-out setting.
- Geraldine’s Holiday Brunch: Located at the Hotel Van Zandt, Geraldine’s serves a festive brunch with live music and seasonal flavors.
Partner With Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate
Austin is a city that shines year-round, but its holiday season is truly something special. From light displays to festive markets, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. If you’re considering making Austin your home, there’s no better time to explore what this vibrant city has to offer.
The team at Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate Austin’s dynamic market. Whether you’re looking for a cozy downtown condo or a spacious family home, their expertise and dedication ensure a seamless real estate experience.
Contact Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate today to begin your journey. With their local knowledge and personalized approach, you’ll be one step closer to finding your perfect home in Austin.
The team at Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate Austin’s dynamic market. Whether you’re looking for a cozy downtown condo or a spacious family home, their expertise and dedication ensure a seamless real estate experience.
Contact Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate today to begin your journey. With their local knowledge and personalized approach, you’ll be one step closer to finding your perfect home in Austin.
